The Sterling-Rock Falls Family YMCA will host a Dec. 17 open house for Aquatics Director Deb Mortonson, who is retiring after being involved with YMCA communities for 39 years.

If you need a break from the harsh winter temperatures, here's a list of some indoor water parks in northern Illinois that are perfect for a day, or an entire weekend, away.

More salt doesn’t mean more melting power. Chloride from excess salt infiltrates our streams and groundwater, and puts aquatic life and freshwater resources at risk.